Conjunctivitis in rabbits: what to know

A rabbit’s eye may become red, wet, swollen or crusted when the conjunctiva is inflamed. Irritation, infection, blocked tear drainage, a scratch, hay injury or dental problems can create similar signs. Rabbits often hide discomfort, so a quiet animal may still need prompt care. Reduced eating, smaller droppings, hiding, a closed eye or rubbing the face adds concern because pain can affect normal feeding.

Contact a rabbit-experienced veterinarian and keep the rabbit in a clean, calm environment. Gently wipe material from the fur with sterile saline or clean lukewarm water and a fresh soft pad; do not scrub the eyeball. Remove dusty bedding and check that hay is clean, but do not delay care to test home remedies. Never use human eye drops or leftover antibiotics unless the veterinarian has prescribed them for this rabbit.

Arrange urgent veterinary assessment for a closed or painful-looking eye, cloudiness, marked swelling, pus-like discharge, a visible wound, sudden onset or suspected injury. Immediate attention is especially important if the rabbit stops eating, produces fewer droppings, becomes weak or repeatedly rubs the face. The veterinarian may need to examine the teeth, tear duct and cornea rather than treating redness alone.

Ask whether the cornea and teeth were checked, how to clean the eye, which medicine is safe for rabbits, and what eating or toileting changes should trigger an emergency visit.